2.Jikko-in Temple/実光院

The next stop, Jikko-in Temple, is located just a few steps away from the gate of Sanzen-in Temple.

It is a sub-temple of Shorin-in Temple that is small but lovely and famous for its gardens.

The beautiful framed view of the gardens from the Guest Hall is just like a piece of a framed art, and beyond any word.

You will sure to find inner peace in its beauty.

The garden also is famous for having Cherry Blossom trees that bloom in the autumn season, making it one of the few places in Japan where you can view the autumn foliage and cherry blossom at the same time.

The pond that sits in the center of the garden is shaped in the image of 心(heart) and is fed from the Ritsu River.

4.Hosen-in Temple/宝泉院

I was stunned by the beautiful view from Hosen-in Temple when I visited there for the first time.

Hosen-in Temple is one of the temples referred to as “Bloody Temples of Kyoto.”

A part of the temple’s ceiling has been transferred from the ceiling of the Fushimi Castle that was stained by the blood of samurai soldiers defending the Castle, who committed ritual suicide when the Castle was captured by the opposition.

Parts of the ceiling have been transferred to various castle and temples to pay respect for the fallen samurai.

Hosen-in is also known for the two-leveled gardens.

There is a great guest hall from which you can see a 700-year-old pine tree in a framed view.

Sipping a bitter bowl of Macha in tatami room underneath the bloodstained ceiling looking at the ancient tree, you are experiencing both the power and transience of life.

7.Jakko-in Temple/寂光院

Away from the cluster of temples around Sanzen-in, located on the opposite side of Ohara is Jakko-in temple.

It is famous for its beautiful garden, autumn foliage, and moss garden.

The approach to Jakko-in Temple is itself a treasure.

Jakko-in Temple is believed to be built in 7th century.

The temple went though various fires, including the most recent one in 2000.

Though it lost some historical feel that you will see in other temples, you will get to see the unique Japanese technical capacity to reconstruct the historical properties.
There are many craft shops and restaurants nearby which are as attractive as temples and gardens themselves.